California Attorney General Rob Bonta has released a detailed report on the officer-involved shooting death of Samuel Soto in Los Angeles, California, on July 26, 2021.
The incident, involving the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), sparked extensive scrutiny and prompted a thorough investigation by the California Department of Justice (DOJ).
The report, mandated by Assembly Bill 1506 (AB 1506) and part of DOJ's commitment to transparency and accountability in law enforcement practices, provides a comprehensive analysis of the incident and outlines the findings of the investigation. After meticulous examination, the DOJ concluded that criminal charges were not appropriate in this case.
Attorney General Bonta emphasized the tragedy of loss of life and extended sympathy to all affected parties, including Mr. Soto's family, law enforcement, and the community. "Our hope is that this report will offer some clarity and facilitate our collective progress towards a California that is safer and more equitable," stated Attorney General Bonta.
According to the report, LAPD officers responded to an assault with a deadly weapon call on July 26, 2021. Mr. Soto was shot by officers around 8:50 pm and succumbed to his injuries on November 2, 2021. The investigation, conducted under AB 1506, scrutinized the circumstances surrounding the shooting and concluded that the officers acted with the intent to defend themselves and others from what they reasonably believed to be imminent death or serious bodily injury.
In light of the findings, no criminal prosecution of the officers will be pursued. However, the report highlights the importance of learning from the incident and offers specific policy and practice recommendations aimed at preventing similar occurrences in the future.
Among the recommendations outlined in the report, DOJ emphasizes the evaluation of LAPD's use and care of electronic control devices (TASER), ensuring officers' compliance with policies and procedures related to TASERs, and enhancing communication and response protocols in collaboration with the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD).
"These policy recommendations will help improve public safety while promoting trust and accountability in our justice system," Attorney General Bonta affirmed.
